PHYSICS - RADIATION

Alpha - Alpha particles are slow moving helium nuclei, they consist of 2 protons and 2 neutrons. They collide with lots of atoms, knocking some of their electrons off and creating ions. An ion is an atom that has become positively charged and can be deflected by positive and negative shields.

Beta - Beta particles are fast moving electrons. They do collide with atoms and produce ions but not as many as the alpha particles. They are negatively charged and can be deflected by electric and magnetive fields.

Gama -Gama Rays are short wave-length electromagnetic waves similar to x-rays. They travel at the speed of light and they don't hit many atoms so they are very poor ionisers. Gamma radiation carries no charge and so is unaffected by magnetic and…